Microplastics in the Air: The Invisible Threat Lurking in Every Breath

We take more than 20,000 breaths every day, but have you ever considered that each inhale could contain thousands of airborne microplastic particles? A 2024 study by the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), published in Environmental Science & Technology, has confirmed that airborne microplastics pose serious health risks, including infertility, colorectal cancer, lung disease, and immune system suppression. Alarmingly, these microscopic plastic fragments have been found in human lungs, bloodstream, placenta, and even breast milk.

Microplastics: The Silent Threat to Our Health

"These microplastics are basically particulate matter air pollution, and we know this type of air pollution is harmful," says Dr. Tracey J. Woodruff, PhD, MPH, a professor of obstetrics, gynecology and reproductive sciences at UCSF.

Airborne microplastics primarily originate from driving, where friction between tires and the road surface gradually wears them down, releasing tiny plastic particles into the air. Other sources include plastic pellets, microbeads in personal care products used for exfoliation, paints containing non-recyclable polymers, synthetic textile fibers that become airborne and inhalable, tire wear, and the breakdown of larger plastic debris (macroplastics). Once suspended in the air, these particles can be unknowingly inhaled, entering the respiratory system. Due to their microscopic size, they can penetrate deep into the lungs, cross into the bloodstream and organs, posing serious long-term health risks.

🔸 Respiratory Damage: When inhaled, microplastics irritate the respiratory tract, causing inflammation, lung damage, and reduced pulmonary function. Studies suggest they may increase the risk of chronic respiratory diseases like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and even lung cancer. The smallest particles can reach the alveoli—the deepest part of the lungs—leading to long-term cellular damage.

🔸 Hormonal Disruptions: Many microplastics contain hazardous chemicals such as bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates, known endocrine disruptors. These chemicals interfere with hormonal balance, affecting fertility in both men and women. Studies also link microplastic exposure to early puberty, menstrual irregularities, and declining sperm quality.

🔸 Neurological Impact: A laboratory study on the effects of microplastics (MPs) in mice, published in Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety (2022), revealed that MPs can infiltrate the brains of aged mice, particularly accumulating in cognition-related regions such as the hippocampus and cortex. The interaction between MPs and iron exacerbates iron overload, leading to neuronal damage through ferroptosis—a form of cell death driven by iron accumulation and oxidative stress-induced lipid peroxidation. This process triggers neuroinflammation, impairs neurological functions, and negatively affects memory, social behavior, and motor skills. The findings suggest that MPs not only act as carriers for heavy metals but may also amplify their neurotoxic effects. While this study was conducted on animals, it raises concerns about the potential risks of MPs on human brain health, particularly in vulnerable populations such as children, pregnant women, and the elderly, whose nervous systems are more susceptible to damage.

IQAir: Advanced Solutions for Cleaner Air

With microplastics becoming an unavoidable part of our environment, protecting indoor air quality is more crucial than ever. IQAir provides cutting-edge air purification technology to effectively remove airborne microplastics and other harmful pollutants.

🔹 IQAir HealthPro – Equipped with HyperHEPA filtration, this system captures 99.97% of ultrafine particles as small as 0.003 microns, including microplastics, PM2.5, pollen, and allergens. Ideal for homes, offices, and individuals with respiratory conditions.

🔹 IQAir Atem Car – A compact yet powerful personal air purifier, designed to protect you from microplastic exposure even on the go. Featuring proprietary HyperHEPA filters, it removes airborne pollutants from your car’s interior, including vehicle exhaust, fine dust, and microplastics.

🔹 IQAir AirVisual Pro – A smart air quality monitor that provides real-time data on indoor and outdoor pollution levels, including airborne microplastics. With custom alerts and air quality tracking, you can proactively minimize exposure and safeguard your health.

By choosing IQAir, you're not just filtering the air—you’re investing in long-term health. Take control of your air quality today and breathe safer, cleaner air! 🌿💨

Source: VnExpress, University of California San Francisco, Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety